The Mahindra Scorpio N is a bold, rugged, and modern SUV that builds upon the legacy of the iconic Scorpio nameplate, a vehicle that has been a symbol of power and presence on Indian roads since 2002. Launched in June 2022, the Scorpio N represents a significant evolution, blending the traditional tough-as-nails ethos of its predecessor with contemporary design, advanced technology, and premium features. Manufactured by Mahindra & Mahindra, one of India’s leading automotive brands, the Scorpio N caters to a diverse audience—ranging from adventure enthusiasts to families seeking a versatile, spacious, and safe vehicle. Positioned as a mid-size SUV, it competes with a crowded segment that includes the Tata Safari, Hyundai Creta, and MG Hector Plus, while offering a unique combination of off-road capability, muscular aesthetics, and value-for-money pricing. With its ladder-frame chassis, powerful engine options, and a 5-star Global NCAP safety rating, the Scorpio N has quickly cemented its reputation as one of the most desirable SUVs in India.
The Scorpio N is not just a vehicle; it’s a statement. Its imposing stance, aggressive front grille, and sleek LED lighting make it a head-turner, while its refined interior and feature-rich cabin elevate the driving experience. Available in both petrol and diesel powertrains, with options for manual or automatic transmissions and rear-wheel-drive (RWD) or four-wheel-drive (4WD) configurations, the Scorpio N offers versatility to suit varied driving needs. Whether navigating city streets, cruising on highways, or tackling off-road trails, this SUV promises a blend of performance, comfort, and reliability that few competitors can match.
Technical Specifications
The technical specifications of the Mahindra Scorpio N vary slightly depending on the engine type and variant. Below is a tabular representation of the key specs for the top-end variant (Z8 L Diesel AT 4WD 7 STR), sourced from CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale, reflecting the most comprehensive configuration.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | mHawk Diesel (Turbocharged) |
| Displacement | 2198 cc |
| No. of Cylinders | 4 |
| Max Power | 172.45 bhp @ 3500 rpm |
| Max Torque | 400 Nm @ 1750-2750 rpm (AT) |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic (Torque Converter) |
| Drivetrain | 4WD (4XPLOR system) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 15.94 kmpl (claimed) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 Litres |
| Seating Capacity | 7 |
| Length | 4662 mm |
| Width | 1917 mm |
| Height | 1857 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2750 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 187 mm |
| Boot Space | 460 Litres (expandable to 786L) |
| Suspension (Front) | Double Wishbone with Coil Spring |
| Suspension (Rear) | Penta-link with Watt’s Linkage |
| Brakes (Front/Rear) | Ventilated Disc / Ventilated Disc |
| Tyre Size | 255/60 R18 (Alloy Wheels) |
| Emission Norm Compliance | BS6 Phase 2 |
Note: Specifications for petrol variants (e.g., 2.0L mStallion Turbo Petrol) include 1997 cc displacement, 200 bhp @ 5000 rpm, and 380 Nm @ 1750-3000 rpm (AT), with slightly lower mileage (~12.17 kmpl ARAI).
Variants
The Mahindra Scorpio N is offered in multiple variants, catering to different budgets and preferences. Below is a table listing the key variants, their fuel types, transmission options, and drivetrain configurations, based on data from CarDekho and Mahindra’s official site.
| Variant | Fuel Type | Transmission | Drivetrain | Seating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Z2 | Petrol/Diesel | Manual | RWD | 7 |
| Z4 | Petrol/Diesel | Manual/Automatic | RWD/4WD (Diesel) | 7 |
| Z6 | Diesel | Manual/Automatic | RWD | 7 |
| Z8 | Petrol/Diesel | Manual/Automatic | RWD/4WD (Diesel) | 7 |
| Z8 L | Petrol/Diesel | Manual/Automatic | RWD/4WD (Diesel) | 6 or 7 |
| Carbon Edition | Petrol/Diesel | Manual/Automatic | RWD/4WD (Diesel) | 6 or 7 |
Notes:
- The Z8 L variant offers a 6-seater option with captain seats in the second row.
- The Carbon Edition (launched in 2024) is a special all-black version based on Z8 and Z8 L trims, with a premium of ~Rs. 20,000 over standard variants.
- 4WD is exclusive to diesel variants and available from Z4 upwards.
Price in Metro Cities
The on-road price of the Mahindra Scorpio N varies across metro cities due to differences in ex-showroom price, RTO charges, and insurance. Below is a table showcasing the on-road prices for the base (Z2 Petrol MT 7 STR) and top-end (Z8 L Diesel AT 4WD 7 STR) variants in major metro cities as of March 2025, sourced from CarWale and CarDekho.
| City | Z2 Petrol MT (On-Road Price) | Z8 L Diesel AT 4WD (On-Road Price) |
|---|---|---|
| New Delhi | Rs. 16.53 Lakh | Rs. 29.71 Lakh |
| Mumbai | Rs. 16.80 Lakh | Rs. 30.15 Lakh |
| Bangalore | Rs. 17.10 Lakh | Rs. 30.85 Lakh |
| Chennai | Rs. 16.95 Lakh | Rs. 30.50 Lakh |
| Kolkata | Rs. 16.70 Lakh | Rs. 29.90 Lakh |
Notes:
- Prices are approximate and subject to change based on dealer offers, additional accessories, and tax variations.
- Ex-showroom prices range from Rs. 13.99 Lakh (Z2 Petrol MT) to Rs. 24.69 Lakh (Z8 L Diesel AT 4WD).
Design and Exterior
The Mahindra Scorpio N embodies a rugged yet sophisticated design philosophy that pays homage to its roots while embracing modernity. At the front, a towering grille with vertical chrome slats and the Mahindra twin-peaks logo commands attention, flanked by sleek double-barrel LED projector headlamps and C-shaped LED daytime running lights (DRLs). The muscular bonnet features sharp creases, enhancing the SUV’s aggressive stance, while the chunky front bumper integrates fog lamps and air intakes for engine cooling. The side profile is equally imposing, with flared wheel arches housing 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels (on top variants), a high ground clearance of 187 mm, and a tall shoulder line that exudes strength. The rear design incorporates scorpion-tail-inspired LED taillights, a subtle spoiler, and a robust skid plate, rounding off the Scorpio N’s tough persona. Available in seven colors—Everest White, Napoli Black, Dazzling Silver, Red Rage, Deep Forest, Royal Gold, and Grand Canyon—the SUV offers ample personalization options.
The Scorpio N’s ladder-frame chassis, a hallmark of its off-road capability, is 10% lighter than its predecessor’s yet boasts 81% high-strength steel for improved rigidity. This construction not only enhances durability but also contributes to its 5-star Global NCAP safety rating, making it one of the safest SUVs in its class.
Interior and Features
Step inside the Scorpio N, and you’re greeted by a cabin that balances rugged utility with premium touches. The dashboard sports a dual-tone black-and-beige finish, with an 8-inch AdrenoX touchscreen infotainment system taking center stage on higher trims. This system supports Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and connected car technology, offering navigation, media, and vehicle diagnostics. The top-spec Z8 L variant ups the ante with a 12-speaker Sony 3D audio system, wireless charging, ventilated front seats, and a 7-inch TFT driver display. Automatic climate control, rear AC vents, and a panoramic sunroof (on Z8 L) further enhance comfort, though the third row lacks dedicated vents—a minor drawback for a three-row SUV.
Seating configurations include 7-seater (bench seats) and 6-seater (captain seats) options, with the second row offering decent legroom and headroom, though the third row is best suited for children or short journeys due to limited knee room. The boot space stands at 460 litres with all seats up, expandable to 786 litres with the third row folded—a practical feature for family trips or luggage-heavy adventures.
Performance and Driving Experience
The Scorpio N offers two potent engine options: a 2.0L mStallion turbo-petrol and a 2.2L mHawk diesel, both paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. The petrol engine delivers 200 bhp and up to 380 Nm of torque, offering spirited performance and refinement, ideal for city driving and highway cruising. The diesel, available in two tunes (130 bhp/300 Nm for lower variants and 172 bhp/400 Nm for higher ones), provides robust low-end torque, making it a favorite for off-road enthusiasts and long-distance travelers. The 4XPLOR 4WD system, exclusive to diesel variants, includes terrain modes (Normal, Snow, Sand, Mud) and a brake-locking differential, ensuring excellent traction on challenging surfaces.
On the road, the Scorpio N impresses with its composed ride quality, thanks to a well-tuned suspension (double wishbone front, penta-link rear). While there’s some body roll during sharp turns—expected from a ladder-frame SUV—it handles corners confidently at moderate speeds. In the city, the light steering and responsive engines make maneuvering easy, while highway stability at 100-120 kmph is commendable. Off-road, the 187 mm ground clearance and 4WD capability allow it to tackle rough terrain with ease, though it’s not as hardcore as the Mahindra Thar. Real-world mileage averages 9-10 kmpl (petrol) and 13-16 kmpl (diesel), depending on conditions, slightly below ARAI claims but acceptable for its size and power.
Safety and Technology
Safety is a standout feature of the Scorpio N, with a 5-star Global NCAP rating for adult occupant protection and a 3-star rating for child occupant protection (tested in 2022). The SUV comes equipped with up to 6 airbags (2 standard), ABS with EBD, electronic stability control (ESC), hill hold/descent control, and a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS). Higher variants add a front camera, rear parking sensors, and driver drowsiness detection, enhancing overall safety. However, it misses out on advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist, which some competitors offer.
Technologically, the Scorpio N strikes a balance between functionality and modernity. The AdrenoX system is intuitive, though the 8-inch screen feels dated compared to larger displays in rivals like the Tata Safari. Features like wireless charging, keyless entry, and push-button start add convenience, but the absence of a 360-degree camera or auto-dimming IRVM in a Rs. 24 Lakh+ SUV is noticeable.
Variants and Pricing Strategy
The Scorpio N’s variant lineup—Z2, Z4, Z6, Z8, Z8 L, and the Carbon Edition—offers something for everyone. The base Z2 is a no-frills option for budget buyers, while the Z4 introduces essentials like a touchscreen and alloy wheels. The Z6 (diesel-only) adds mid-tier features, and the Z8/Z8 L trims cater to premium buyers with luxury additions like leatherette upholstery and 4WD. The Carbon Edition, with its all-black theme, appeals to those seeking exclusivity. Prices range from Rs. 13.99 Lakh to Rs. 24.69 Lakh (ex-showroom), with on-road costs in metro cities reaching Rs. 30 Lakh for the top variant—a competitive bracket that undercuts pricier rivals like the Toyota Fortuner while offering more features than the Scorpio Classic.
Close Competitors
The Mahindra Scorpio N operates in a fiercely competitive mid-size SUV segment. Here’s how it stacks up against its closest rivals:
- Tata Safari: Priced between Rs. 16.19 Lakh and Rs. 27.34 Lakh (ex-showroom), the Safari offers a premium cabin, a 2.0L diesel engine (168 bhp, 350 Nm), and a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen. It lacks a petrol option or 4WD, but its monocoque chassis provides better ride quality. The Scorpio N counters with superior off-road capability and a lower starting price.
- Hyundai Creta: Starting at Rs. 11 Lakh and topping out at Rs. 20.15 Lakh (ex-showroom), the Creta is a compact SUV with a modern design, feature-loaded interior (Level 2 ADAS, 10.25-inch screen), and multiple engine options (1.5L NA petrol, 1.5L turbo-petrol, 1.5L diesel). It’s more car-like to drive but lacks the Scorpio N’s ruggedness and 7-seater practicality.
- MG Hector Plus: Priced from Rs. 18 Lakh to Rs. 23.58 Lakh (ex-showroom), the Hector Plus offers a spacious 6/7-seater layout, a massive 14-inch touchscreen, and petrol/diesel engines (141 bhp/250 Nm petrol, 168 bhp/350 Nm diesel). It excels in tech and comfort but falls short in off-road prowess and safety ratings compared to the Scorpio N’s 5-star accolade.
- Mahindra XUV700: A sibling rival, the XUV700 (Rs. 13.99 Lakh to Rs. 26.99 Lakh) shares engines with the Scorpio N but offers a monocoque chassis, ADAS, and a more premium feel. It’s less rugged and lacks 4WD, positioning the Scorpio N as the tougher, off-road-ready option.
The Scorpio N stands out for its blend of traditional SUV traits—body-on-frame construction, high ground clearance, and 4WD—with modern amenities, making it a versatile choice against these competitors.
Verdict
The Mahindra Scorpio N is a compelling package for buyers seeking a muscular, capable, and feature-rich SUV without breaking the bank. Its strengths lie in its commanding road presence, powerful engines, off-road capability, and top-tier safety credentials. While it doesn’t match the refinement of monocoque rivals like the XUV700 or Creta, its rugged charm and practicality make it a worthy successor to the Scorpio legacy. Minor shortcomings—third-row comfort, lack of ADAS, and average fuel efficiency—are overshadowed by its value proposition, especially at its price point. Whether you’re a family man, an adventurer, or someone who simply loves a dominant driving position, the Scorpio N delivers an experience that’s hard to ignore in India’s SUV market.
